West Coast Bento — Restaurant in Portland

Twice now I've tried to enjoy this bento shop. The first time I walked in off the street because it smelled pretty good. I noted right away that unfortunately, this place has no tables. Since I was looking for a place to sit and enjoy my lunch I moved on.

Today I returned to give it another go. I casually shared with our main hero dude that I left last time but was excited to be back to try their bento to go. Rather than laugh, sympathize, or welcome me back, or hero chose to correct me.

The important value here was not that I returned, but that I was wrong. He haughtily educated me of the meaning of "bento" in Japanese to ensure I was aware of my mistake. I now have firm understanding that bento is supposed to be eaten while standing, or to go. Good thing I intended to get it to go this time. 😬

With my order ready, I presented my phone to tap and go. Nope! Only cash or card. No problem, use my debit card. After several failed attempts, his POS machine (yes, both acronyms are applicable) was unable swipe or tap my card. I suggested maybe entering it manually. 🤔 Nope, can't do that either; we're done.

As I left, our boorish hero dude had the audacity to yell across the street at me that I should carry more cash. Thanks for the life advice, champion. 👍

I'm writing this review, comfortably seated at a table enjoying lunch at another bento place ran by a sweet Japanese lady instead of an angry white dude. I wonder if she’s judging my cultural ignorance for sitting at one of her tables while enjoying her bento. I’ll make it up to her with a separate 5-star review, because this sure...

Wanted to support a local small business so my colleague and I thought we would try West Coast Bento. I must say I was disappointed in the food and customer service. My Chicken and Beef skewers were dry, hard, and had no flavor. When I called to inform the man at the counter I wanted my money back and will not try anything else he told me I can write a review about it and that I have to eat it. I will not be recommending this business to any of my family,...

The staff could have been a bit more friendly when I came by around half an hour before closing. They seemed more interested in packing up instead of being customer service oriented. Certainly did not feel the most welcome in the shop but I was craving for some curry rice- the food was still fresh and delicious but the service attitude put a damper on my taste. Initially ate there on the bench but was hurried away at closing and had to bring the box...